Show Me Tell Me Questions UK: 2026 DVSA Driving Test Guide

Passing your practical exam requires knowing basic vehicle safety. At the start of your test, the examiner will ask you two show me tell me questions: one stationary check before moving, and one practical demonstration while driving.

Answering one or both questions incorrectly results in a single driving fault. Use this complete guide to study all 21 questions.

1. “Tell Me” Questions (Asked Before Driving)

The examiner asks one of these 14 questions while parked. You answer verbally and only open the bonnet for questions 12, 13, or 14.

Q1. Brakes Check

• Question: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey?

• Answer: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Test them as you set off; the car should not pull to one side.

Q2. Tyre Pressure Information

• Question: Tell me where you would find the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how to check them.

• Answer: Check the manufacturer handbook or door frame sticker. Measure pressures when tyres are cold using a reliable gauge, check all four tyres plus the spare, and refit valve caps.

Q3. Head Restraint Adjustment

• Question: Tell me how you adjust your head restraint for the best protection in a collision.

• Answer: Adjust the restraint so the rigid central section is at eye level or level with the top of your ears, and close to the back of your head.

Q4. Tyre Tread Depth and Condition

• Question: Tell me how you check tyres to ensure sufficient tread depth and safe general condition.

• Answer: Check for cuts or bulges. Ensure a minimum 1.6mm tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth around the entire outer circumference.

Q5. Headlights and Tail Lights

• Question: Tell me how you check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

• Answer: Turn on the light switch and ignition if necessary. Walk around the vehicle to verify all lights operate.

Q6. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

• Question: Tell me how you know if there is a problem with your anti-lock braking system.

• Answer: Switch on the ignition. A dedicated ABS warning light illuminates on the instrument panel if a fault exists.

Q7. Direction Indicators

• Question: Tell me how you check that the direction indicators are working.

• Answer: Turn on the hazard warning switch or ignition and operating indicators. Walk around the car to confirm all bulbs flash.

Q8. Brake Lights

• Question: Tell me how you check that the brake lights operate correctly.

• Answer: Press the brake pedal and look for reflections in windows or doors behind, or ask someone to check.

Q9. Power Steering Check

• Question: Tell me how you check that power-assisted steering works before a journey.

• Answer: Heavy steering indicates a problem. Apply light pressure to the steering wheel while starting the engine; a slight movement confirms system operation.

Q10. Rear Fog Lights

• Question: Tell me how you switch on rear fog lights and explain when to use them.

• Answer: Turn on dipped headlights, operate the fog light switch, and check for the dashboard warning symbol. Use them when visibility drops below 100 metres.

Q11. Main Beam Headlights

• Question: Tell me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and know it is active.

• Answer: Turn on dipped headlights, operate the control stalk to activate main beam, and check for the blue dashboard symbol.

Bonnet Checks (Under the Hood)

The examiner asks you to open the bonnet and locate specific engine fluid components for these three checks.

Q12. Engine Oil Level

• Question: Open the bonnet and tell me how you check that the engine has sufficient oil.

• Answer: Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and verify the oil level against minimum and maximum markings.

Q13. Engine Coolant Level

• Question: Open the bonnet and tell me how you check that the engine has sufficient coolant.

• Answer: Identify the header tank filler cap and check the fluid level against the minimum and maximum markings printed on the side.

Q14. Hydraulic Brake Fluid

• Question: Open the bonnet and tell me how you check for a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

• Answer: Locate the brake fluid reservoir and check the fluid level against the high and low markings on the reservoir side.

2. “Show Me” Questions (Asked While Driving)

The examiner asks one of these 7 questions while moving. Perform the action safely while maintaining vehicle control.

1. Wash and Wipe Rear Windscreen: Push or twist the wiper control switch to wash and wipe the rear window.

2. Wash and Wipe Front Windscreen: Pull the wiper stalk to spray fluid and activate front wipers.

3. Dipped Headlights: Turn the main light switch dial to the dipped headlight setting.

4. Rear Demister: Press the rear demister button with the square wavy icon.

5. Front Windscreen Demister: Increase fan speed, direct air to the screen, and switch on air conditioning.

6. Horn: Press the centre of the steering wheel briefly.

7. Side Window: Press the window control switch to open and close the driver window slightly.

Testing Summary

Before taking your exam, verify all booking rules by reviewing our guide on DVSA Driving Test Rules 2026. You can also review official safety guidelines on the GOV.UK Learning to Drive Portal.